Truman library sword

[ChrisW]

Not going to defend how it was handled. But from the photos available of it today, it appears to be in fine shape. So someone made sure it was kept carefully or its been restored.

May I ask what you are trying to infer? It was a gift to Krueger. He then gave it to his commanding officer at the end of the war. Presentations like this were commonplace and considered a sign of respect. This has been a practice for centuries. If you think that giving a memento to a higher ranked individual after a hard-fought war or battle is kissing ass, then what is appropriate?

 

Gift-giving to higher rank individuals is also VERY common and even expected in Japan. It was common for lords of any status to give other lords a gift of a Japanese blade or fittings when visiting. Sometimes the practice dictated a VERY nice blade with a very big name. Many times high-end Soshu pieces were given as gifts (who is to say how many?).


Edit: response tempered!

[John A Stuart]

Easy does it. Don't get your halyards twisted guys. Different time and place. John

[ChrisW]

That is fair John, I will temper my response. Thank you.

[Stephen]

No worries Chris, one in every crowd.

Some were not brought up with honor and respect.

Thank you for your service.

   

[Surfson]

The koshirae were restored in the 70s, according to the above.  I presume that the sword was polished at that time.   All the DNA from Truman and Krueger is likely long gone and the sword appears to be properly handled now.  

[brucer]

Irregardless of how or why it ended up where it is, it should go back. If they had something that we’d consider a national treasure we’d be screaming bloody murder about it.

[stackinnutts]

Does anyone have pictures of the tang?

[Baba Yaga]

On 8/9/2021 at 7:32 AM, Peter Bleed said:

Wasn't there a story a while ago about this sword having been stolen from the display?

Peter

 

Yep, it's been a long time since I read about this. From what I remember the swords were all switched out for commons. Happens a lot at museums . 

[stackinnutts]

On 8/13/2021 at 7:19 PM, Stephen said:

In case im not around later his contact info.

When they do open later i may plan a trip to the museum. I would welcome anyone in the area to accompany me but remember we can only look we can't touch. 

 

Good Evening Mr. Christianson,

 

Attached below is some of the information you asked about during our telephone conversation.  Once we get back into the Library on a regular basis, I can look into photographing the tang and getting a better image of the hamon.

 

Please let me know if I can be of further assistance.

 

Kind regards,

John Miller

Museum Registrar

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library

500 W. US Highway 24

Independence, MO 64050-1798

816-268-8204

 

 

 

I emailed him with no response; I wonder if he is even still around!

[Stephen]

5 minutes ago, stackinnutts said:

I wonder if he is even still around!

Maybe try calling?

[stackinnutts]

3 hours ago, Stephen said:

Maybe try calling?

Good Idea; thanks!